Forever in the Record Books

No, not Albert Pujols, Prince Albert, King Albert, money, Angels, Cardinals, mystery teams, contracts, hot stove, blah, blah, blah.  I am glad the Pujols saga is over so that talking heads can stop talking about it. But now they can talk about how competitive the Angels will be, how 10 years might be too much, the Angel's putting themselves into bankruptcy with this deal, etc. 

All I am concerned about now is whether or not Jimmy Rollins will resign with the Phillies.  The word on the street is that a deal is close to being done, but isn't inked yet.  Apparently Rollins wants 5 years, but with all of his injuries and his age being a factor, realistically he is looking at 3 years with the possibility of 4th year option.  I do hope something gets done today, or very soon. Short stop is too important a position for the Phillies to be messing around with.

Since Rollins is usually When Rollins is hurt, taking a break, etc. the Phillies have often called on utility infielder Wilson Valdez to step in.  He's done a pretty admirable job in the field (killer arm) and a mediocre job at the plate.  But Valdez won't be remembered for filling in the open infield slots when they arise. 

In a 2011 season that had some epic moments, this ranks up there near the top.  Some of you might remember the following all the way back in May:

In a game started on May 25, 2011 (but did not conclude until May 26) Valdez switched from second base to pitcher in the 19th inning, pitching one inning and allowing no runs. This was the first time he had ever pitched in a professional game. When the Phillies won in the bottom of the 19th inning, he was credited with the win. Valdez thus became the first position player to earn a win since catcher Brent Mayne won a game for the Colorado Rockies in 2000, and just the second since 1968.According to Elias Sports Bureau Valdez was the first player since Babe Ruth to start a game in the field and end up as the winning pitcher.  Source

When I saw this Wilson Valdez serial numbered, on card auto-ed SP Authentic rookie card available for $5, I had to pick it up to include in my "special" Phillies binder.  I like that he has an Expos uniform on, too. He was signed by them all the way back in 1997.



Have a great Thursday--the weekend is within sight!